Have you ever wondered where hats came from and why people celebrate them on January 15?
Hats are used for work, fashion, and protection. They come in all shapes and sizes, and there are hats for every occasion. Every year, hats bring billions of dollars into the global economy.
Are you curious to find out more about National Hat Day? Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about the fabulous world of hats!
History of National Hat Day
People have been celebrating National Hat Day since at least 1983. In museums, libraries, and schools throughout the country, people wear their favorite hats to mark this day.
It’s not entirely clear how National Hat Day came into existence. However, January 15 also marks an interesting hat-related anniversary, which some people believe is no coincidence.
On January 15, 1797, London haberdasher John Hetherington appeared in court for disturbing the peace by wearing the first-ever top hat in public.
It was reported that several women fainted, and a young boy even broke his arm after being frightened by the tall hat.
This astounding case shows just how far we have come in accepting and appreciating hats of all different shapes and sizes!
But, while their designs might have changed over the decades, hats are not new.
These head warmers, sun shades, and fashion accessories date back to the times of Ancient Egypt.
Some of the earliest depictions of hats are from Egypt in 3200 BC, including nemes, the iconic striped headcloths worn by Pharaohs.
Hats grew in popularity throughout the following centuries. During the Middle Ages, they became a status symbol, and by the 1800s, they had become a must-have in a woman’s wardrobe.
Hats became more ornate and decorative, often seen as a symbol of status or wealth.
Today, hats are mostly worn to keep the head warm, provide shade, or as fashion accessories. There are very few events, such as the Kentucky Derby, where glamorous hats might be required.
This makes National Hat Day the perfect excuse to wear your favorite hat and celebrate!
How to celebrate National Hat Day
Are you wondering what to do to mark National Hat Day? Whether you always wear a hat or keep one for special occasions, here are some of the popular ways to celebrate.
Wear your favorite hat.
Helmets, top hats, and fascinators are great choices on National Hat Day. There is no better excuse to wear a silly hat than National Hat Day.
Post about hats on social media.
Why not post one of the fun facts you’ve learned about hats? Many people join in with this national day by using the hashtag #NationalHatDay.
Visit a hat museum.
What better way to learn about hats than visiting a museum like the National Hat Museum in Portland, Oregon? Find a museum near you, and they will likely be celebrating National Hat Day!
National Hat Day FAQs
Why do we celebrate National Hat Day?
National Hat Day is simply a day to wear your favorite hats and have a good time. You can also attend events in your local museum or online to learn more about this topic.
Are there any other days celebrating hats?
National Hat Day is not the only day that promotes wearing hats. In the UK, for example, the charity Brain Tumor Research hosts an annual “Wear a Hat Day” in March to raise funds.
Why do people wear hats?
People wear hats for many different reasons. Some hats, such as chefs’ hats or bishops’ miters, are worn for professional reasons. They may also be worn for protection during cold weather or simply as a fashion accessory.
5 Facts About Hats
A musical called “Top Hat” was released in 1935, starring dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
Celebrities use hats to create their own unique style. For example, Michael Jackson wore a fedora, which became a well-recognized part of the famous singer’s wardrobe.
In 1571, Queen Elizabeth I of England passed a law requiring everyone over the age of six to wear a wooly hat on Sundays. Some people were exempt, including gentlemen and gentlewomen, ladies and lords, knights, nobles, and maids.
Global sales for hats and other headwear have a total value of more than $26 billion annually.
Black cabs in London have higher roofs to accommodate people wearing bowler hats. This tradition dates back to the days of horse-drawn carriages in the 17th century!
Hats are worn for all sorts of reasons and have an interesting history across the world. Celebrities wear them for extra style, and some professions require them to be worn every day.
Whether you love to wear hats or don’t get the fuss, National Hat Day is the perfect reason to learn all about them!
